Palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by crops of sterile pustules on the palms and soles that erupt repeatedly over time (picture 1A-F). Yellow-brown macules (remnants of resolving pustules), erythema, scale, and fissures are additional frequent findings. Other terms that have been used to refer to PPP are palmoplantar pustular psoriasis, pustulosis palmoplantaris, and pustulosis palmaris et plantaris.

Despite the limited area of skin involvement in PPP, the condition can have a significant negative effect on quality of life. Symptoms of pruritus, burning sensations, or pain are often present. In severe cases, the discomfort associated with skin involvement can cause difficulty with walking or other activities of daily living.

The classification of palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) is controversial. While some authors propose that PPP is a variant of psoriasis [1,2], others consider the disease a separate condition [3-10].

Authors who consider PPP a subtype of psoriasis have done so based upon the recognition of similarities between the conditions. As an example, our retrospective study comparing 39 patients with PPP and 51 patients with palmoplantar plaque psoriasis (a non-pustular form of psoriasis characterized by erythematous scaly plaques on the palms and soles) did not find statistically significant differences in age of onset, disease duration, family history of psoriasis, concomitant arthritis, or smoking habits between the two groups [1]. In addition, erythematous, scaly plaques similar to those of palmoplantar plaque psoriasis frequently accompanied pustules in PPP.

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